Dong Ba Hotel - Lijiang

Let's get right down to it, shall we? Cons: We are baffled as to why this place is lonely planet's "top choice". The place is run down, they don't speak English and the staff is incompetent to say the least. First things first, finding the place is challenging. The staff don't even know the hotel's address so don't bother calling them. Look for the bar "stone the crows" and you're right around the corner from them. The staff know nothing about anything. They don't even know that there are buses running from the bus terminal in Lijiang to the old town or that there are buses from Lijiang to Tiger Leaping Gorge. They only know "take taxi". We couldn't fall asleep until well into the morning because of other guests partying late and the staff didn't even bother to silence them. There's no regard for other guests. "Breakfast included" is a big joke because you have a choice of dry bread or fried noodles. And if you have to leave at 07:00 (which you mostly have to do for most excursions) then you can forget about breakfast because they only start at 07:30 and wont get up earlier only for you. Pros: very clean for Chinese standard. Big TV in room. Bathroom necessities available. Location is central. Verdict: we wouldn't here stay again. There are DEFNITELY better places. Try "mama naxi" or "the international hostel".

The Dongba Hostel is a delight from start to finish. This family owned hostel is a little tricky to find at first, but not to worry, they will happily send someone out to find and escort you. The hospitality here is amazing. No sooner had we put our bags down in our room before the owner eagerly arrived at our door to invite us to a BBQ they were having, which had to be a certain highlight of the trip. My glass never ran empty and the food was outstanding. The social vibe here is a definite plus. The rooms are a little bit of a squeeze but are wonderfully presented. I will go out on a limb here to say that the beds are probably the most comfortable in all of China - if you are need of a soft bed, then this is the place. The location is slightly removed from the bustle of old town, meaning quiet nights and peaceful mornings. Each time you walk into the courtyard, the family owners will smile and greet you with unwavering enthusiasm - they truly live to please. If I am in Lijiang again, I will make this my top choice.